Blocked Drain FAQ's in Tennyson Point
What causes blocked drains in Tennyson Point properties?
Blocked drains are typically caused by grease and food waste solidifying in kitchen lines, hair and soap scum accumulating in bathroom drains, or tree roots entering microscopic cracks in aging pipes seeking moisture. In external lines, leaf litter and silt from stormwater can create obstructions. The specific cause is confirmed during CCTV inspection before clearing begins.
How do you clear a drain blockage without damaging pipes?
We use CCTV cameras to identify the blockage type and location first, then select the appropriate clearing method. High-pressure water jetting removes most obstructions without pipe contact damage, while mechanical clearing tools are used for solid foreign objects. If inspection shows the pipe is already damaged or deteriorated, we explain repair options and confirm scope before proceeding with clearing to avoid worsening existing structural issues.
Can tree roots cause blocked drains even if trees aren't directly above the pipes?
Yes, tree roots can travel significant distances seeking moisture and enter sewer lines through hairline cracks or deteriorated pipe joints. In established suburbs, mature trees may have root systems extending well beyond their canopy. CCTV check shows the extent of root intrusion, and we explain whether clearing alone will resolve it or if drain relining is needed to prevent regrowth into the line.
What should I do if a drain is blocked and water is backing up?
Stop using all water fixtures that drain to the affected line to prevent further backup. Don't attempt to force more water through or use chemical cleaners, as these can make the situation worse if the blockage is severe. Call us for same-day dispatch; we'll assess the obstruction, provide a fixed-price quote based on what's involved, and clear the line once the scope is confirmed.
How long does it take to clear a drain blockage?
Straightforward blockages caused by debris buildup typically take one to two hours to diagnose, clear, and verify. This includes camera inspection, high-pressure jetting, and testing flow after clearing. If inspection reveals underlying pipe damage or extensive root masses, additional time is required and explained before proceeding. The fixed price quoted covers the time needed based on confirmed scope.
Will you need to dig up my driveway or garden to clear a blocked drain?
Most blockages are cleared without excavation using CCTV cameras and high-pressure water jetting inserted through existing access points. Digging is only required if the pipe has collapsed, shifted significantly, or if access points don't exist where needed. If excavation is necessary, we explain why, confirm the extent of digging, and provide a fixed price before starting.
What's the difference between a drain blockage and a damaged pipe?
A drain blockage is an obstruction restricting water flow, usually caused by debris, grease, or roots that can be cleared. A damaged pipe has structural failure such as cracks, collapsed sections, or severe corrosion that allows soil or roots to enter. CCTV inspection shows which you're dealing with; blockages are cleared, while damaged pipes require repair or relining to prevent recurring failures.
Do you provide a warranty on blocked drain clearing work?
Yes, all drainage work is backed by our Lifetime Labour Warranty on workmanship. This covers the clearing process and any repairs completed during the job. If a blockage recurs due to the same debris in the same location shortly after clearing, we'll return and reassess at no additional labour cost. The warranty doesn't cover new blockages caused by subsequent misuse or underlying pipe damage that wasn't present or identified during the original work.
How can I prevent drains from blocking in the future?
Avoid pouring fats, oils, and grease down kitchen sinks; let them cool and dispose in the bin instead. Use drain guards to catch hair and food particles before they enter pipes. Don't flush anything other than toilet paper and human waste. For properties with mature trees near sewer lines, periodic CCTV inspections can identify early root intrusion before it causes a full blockage, allowing preventive pipe relining while the issue is still minor.
What's included in your fixed-fee quote for blocked drain work?
The fixed price includes CCTV camera inspection to locate and identify the blockage, high-pressure water jetting or mechanical clearing to remove the obstruction, verification that flow is restored, and site cleanup. If inspection reveals additional issues like pipe damage or extensive root intrusion requiring different methods, we explain what's needed and provide a separate fixed quote before proceeding with that additional scope.
